Welcome to Great Ife, Freshmen; Now That You Are Here (II)

Starting university is very exciting and a challenging time for many fresh students. The long awaited freedom and desire that you have been awaiting is finally here. This commences and offers a new slate for personal growth, academic achievement, self discovery, social connection and lots more.

ICYMI: Welcome to Great Ife, Freshmen; Now That You Are Here (I)

 However, it also comes with its own set of difficulties and pressures that can be confusing, overwhelming and stressful. Hence, it is important for you to be aware of these challenges and the possible adjustments you can make as you begin a new chapter of your life in Africa’s Most Beautiful Campus.

Academic Demands: University is a complete new level that has its own peculiar academic demands and expectations on you. Courses are usually more rigorous, fast-paced, and independent than secondary school classes. You will have to learn how to manage this heavy workload, more complex assignments, sometimes little guidance from tutorial masters or senior colleagues and more competition from peers. To succeed academically in university, you need to develop the following;

1. Effective study skills like spaced repetition

2. Time management skills like making study timetable and deep work.

3. Self discipline by motivating yourself with your dreams and aspirations.

4. Focusing on your goals and avoid distractions.

Furthermore, as a fresh undergraduate, you need to try and attend all your classes, take good notes, review the notes regularly, ask questions when necessary, prepare for tests and examinations well (in advance), seek help when you need it and make good use of your mobile phone towards your academic success (Google and YouTube are great platforms to learn more on any course)

With or Without the Students’ Union – What has really changed?

Social Adjustment : A shared experience that fresher’s face is fitting in the university system, is the lack of awareness that they have entered into a diverse and dynamic community where you will encounter people from different backgrounds, cultures, perspectives and personalities. It can both be exciting and confusing that people do things differently from the way you do. This becomes more apparent when you start living in your different hostels. It is therefore necessary to respect, accommodate and understand others.

Some may feel shy, insecure, or isolated in their new surroundings. Others may feel pressured to conform to illicit social norms, disregard modesty or expectations that they are not comfortable with. To overcome these social challenges, you need to be yourself, avoid and disregard negative peer pressure. You do not have to change who you are or what you value to fit in.
You will find people who accept you for who you are and share your interests by joining groups or events that match your hobbies or passions. You can also reach out to people who seem friendly or approachable and start conversations with them. You can also be supportive of others who may be going through similar struggles as you.

Self-Care: A fundamental part or aspect of wellness is taking good care of yourself. Most fresh students often get carried away with the stress of academics and fail to take care of themselves physically, mentally and emotionally in the University.

Students’ Union Meets Management Over School Fees Hike

Some students tend to neglect their health and well-being by eating poorly, sleeping less, exercising less, or engaging in other unhealthy habits . Others may experience mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem due to academic or social pressures or personal problems.
To cope in this new environment, you need to prioritize and take good care of your health. You need to eat well-balanced meals, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep and exercise regularly

Being in a University is a time of learning and growth for many students who face various challenges along the way. By being aware of these challenges and overcoming them, we strive to become better versions of ourselves. Therefore, it is note worthy to remember that you are not alone in this journey and that there are many people who can help you along the way when you speak up.

Finally, it is very important to start on a strong foot. Know your goals and plan ahead. Work smart in bringing out the best out of yourself. You can definitely get the CGPA you are aspiring for if you work for it. Be inquisitive, be ready to explore, gain new skills and do not limit yourself because you can definitely do it. Do your best and be prayerful.

I am Habeebullah and I welcome you to Obafemi Awolowo University.